Complex & Multi-ligamentous Reconstruction

ACL reconstruction is the commonest ligament surgery performed for restoring knee stability. However, the other 3 major ligaments i.e. the PCL, MCL & LCL may also tear following an injury and may need repair or reconstruction. In this article, we will talk about these three complex & multi-ligamentous reconstructions.

 

Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) reconstructions

This is perhaps the strongest ligament of the knee and requires significant force for its failure. Impacts on the front of the knee (as in dashboard injuries in road traffic accidents) or a fall on a bent knee are the commonest modes of injury. Like ACL reconstruction, PCL reconstructive surgery is also fairly routinely done.

 

Postero-lateral complex (PLC) reconstructions

This area of the knee was largely overlooked but is now better understood. Injuries to this area are often associated with ACL or PCL tears and need to be addressed with reconstructive procedures.

 

Lateral or Medial Collateral Ligament (LCL or MCL) reconstructions

These are 2 ligaments running on either side of the knee. They are usually injured during sideway impact to the knee. Occasionally they may also need repair or reconstruction depending on the severity / grade of tear.